The Best Neutral Running Shoes Reviewed & Tested
Having the right shoes will not only improve your performance, but they’ll also address issues you may be having due to wearing the wrong shoes. These neutral running shoes will relieve any pain you have and help prevent it from occurring in the future.
We hope you find our most recent list of the top ten best neutral runners helpful in your search! Make sure to take a look at the reviews we have below to find the perfect pair of neutral running shoes for you to invest in next
Enjoy!
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Support
When you are looking for the best pair of shoes, you need to consider the support that they have to offer. Shoes with good support will keep your feet protected and comfortable so you can get more out of your outings!
If you’re looking for neutral running shoes, there’s a good chance that you don’t suffer from high arches or flat feet. You may experience a slight overpronation, but probably don’t have any serious issues that could require special support. Neutral shoes are just that, they provide a neutral level of support.
This means that they still offer mild cushioning and shock absorbency, but with fewer layers between you and the ground. They make up the midline and may only be appropriate for certain situations. These aren’t necessarily the shoes that you would want to wear on rocky terrain or on trails specifically meant for barefoot running.
These running shoes are right in the middle and can be great for tracks and other pre-prepared areas. This level neutrality is something that we looked at when putting this list together. If you are an avid runner, you may have noticed you need support in specific areas. Our detailed outline of each of the top neutral shoes will tell you how much support each shoe has.
Comfort
Nothing will derail your plans for a good walk or jog faster than having shoes that do not fit well and that are uncomfortable. There is no point in investing in shoes or wearing shoes that are not comfortable!
Comfort is very important when selecting the best neutral running shoes. Is the toe box roomy enough, do the sizes run big or small, or are they narrow? We let you know all of this in our neutral shoes. So, make sure you take a look at everything the shoes have to offer to make sure you get something that offers you the comfort you need.
Choosing the wrong type of shoe can result in a distracting experience while trying to run. Any type distraction can throw you off of your game and make it more difficult to focus on improving your performance. This is why comfort is such a big deal when looking at any type of running shoe.'
All in all, comfort is the most important thing you need to look out for. if you are able to you may want to go to a store and try them on if you want to be sure they will work for you. A lot of specialty running stores will let you go in and try them out on a treadmill to see how they actually feel and whether or not they actually work for you.
Breathability
Wet feet are sore and itchy and smelling feet and no one wants that. Providing proper air flow for your feet is critical and the best shoes are those that rank high for their breathability and their cooling design.
Breathability is something we look for in almost all of our shoes--the only time we don't prioritize breathability is when we need a pair of shoes for really technical terrain or for frigid or rainy weather. Breathability and proper ventilation is important because it ensures our feet stay cool and dry during our runs.
This prevents chafing, blisters, and other painful side effects from developing. Trust us, the last thing you want is for your feet to rub uncomfortably against your shoe and then not be able to run for days while your blisters heal. You will notice some of the shoes on our list are more breathable than others--so make sure to pick something that fits your needs.
If you already have sweaty feet issues than we highly recommend you prioritize breathability when looking for your next pair of running shoes. Make sure to look for running shoes that offer ventilation and mesh feature that ensure your feet stay cool and dry--this way you don't have to worry about your feet sweating, even if you have sweaty feet.
Durability
If you are going to invest good money in a pair of shoes, you want them to last and you want them to hold up to the normal wear and tear that running deals out. No shoe is worth buying if it won’t meet your wants and needs!
No one wants to replace their shoes a month after getting them. which is why we always look at the durability of the shoes. While all of the options on our list are durable--some are more durable than others. The overall durability of the shoes also requires you don't use them on the wrong terrain,
So make sure you keep them on the road if that is what they are designed for. In the end, a good pair of running shoes should last between 400 and 600 miles. We want you to know if these neutral running shoes meet those criteria as far as durability goes. We typically select shoes that will last a good amount of time.
All in all, you need to make sure you get a pair of neutral running shoes that are made of high quality materials and that are built to last. All of the selections on our list are designed to be durable, however, it is important to note that some of the shoes on our list are more durable than other options, so read closely
Top 10 Neutral Running Shoes
1. Saucony Endorphin Speed 2
If your looking for a well-rounded trainer and possibly race shoes and are looking for an alternative to the more expensive shoes with a carbon midsole plate, Saucony's Endorphin Speed 2 is the one to check out.
Read moreWe put this shoe through the works, running intervals, long-distance marathon paces, and even speed drills, and couldn't find anything we would change about it. We would put this up against similar, more expensive shoes with total confidence that the Endorphin Speed 2 will come out in the top 3.
Saucony opted for a nylon midsole plate for this shoe instead of a carbon one. This probably helps the price and helps some with the shoe's overall durability over time, with nylon breaking down slower than carbon over added-up miles.
To sum it up, the fit, durability, comfort, and overall performance are top-notch with this one. While this is a neutral running shoe all the way, you won't get any extra support for different foot conditions; if that's what you're going for, we recommend it for runners of all levels.
2. New Balance 880v8
These are some of the best new balance shoes out there right now. They are great for all runners and are really comfortable, durable, and flexible. They provide great stability and support and provide optimal comfort so you can focus on your running instead of every other little ache and pain.
Read moreSupport
Pricey, but given that they are a durable pair of shoes that provide added stability the price tag makes sense. They are also incredibly supportive for the neutral runner, so they will work for those of you who need neutral runners.
Comfort
The shoes upper is made of mesh, for great breathability and ventilation during your runs. Their midsole provides a compressed and adequately cushioned fit for added comfort.
Stability
They are lightweight, flexible, and absorb shock to prevent unnecessary stress to your joints and knees. Unlike some other shoes on our list, these shoes have added stability to prevent your ankles from rolling and to keep your feet securely in place.
Breathability
Durability
These are pretty durable, but not the most durable option on our list. They are built to last if you don't go off road with them and their midsole does not deteriorate.
3. Mizuno Wave Creation 18
A neutral running shoe that provides good arch support, is flexible, absorbs shock, and has a good amount of cushioning. The best part about these shoes is how highly rated and reviewed these shoes have been for quite some time now.
Read moreSupport
It has great breathability, provides good arch support, and has stretchable material in the forefoot and collar that provide flexibility.
Comfort
It will absorb shock when your feet hit the ground, the flex grooves in the forefoot assist with great toe-offs, and its figure-eight shaped midfoot area adds additional cushioning to heel for comfort.
Stability
If you don't mind a running shoe that's a bit on the heavy side this will be comfortable and provide good stability.
Breathability
These neutral running shoes by Mizuno are incredibly breathable and designed to keep your feet cool and dry no matter how far you run or how hot it is outside.
Durability
This is a highly durable and quality made neutral running shoe that will last a long time. The Mizuno Wave Creation 18's can be a bit pricey, but are worth the money spent
4. ASICS GEL Nimbus 20
The ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are one of the most popular running models this year. They are great for neutral runners they specifically address gait issues you may have--although this means they aren't a minimalistic option. They are, however, available in lots of colors to choose from!
Read moreSupport
Overall, they're responsive and adequately absorb shock to ensure you stay comfortable during your runs.
Comfort
These shoes are really comfortable and well-cushioned. They have a double-layered midsole and provide you with a nice and secure fit.
Stability
These shoes also provide great breathability and their Guidance Trusstic System will help improve your gait, provide additional stability, and ensure your foot remains securely in place.
Breathability
This shoe is a little bit expensive. You can always try to look for it on sale but even in regular price, these shoes are worth the money--and they are also incredibly breathable and designed to give the ventilation you need.
Durability
These shoes are really durable thanks to the additional rubber and gel-cushioning on their outsole.
5. Brooks Ghost 11
These shoes are just as supportive and well-cushioned as their predecessor, however, they come with a new and improved midsole that contours to your foot to further meet your needs. It is available in several great color options to choose from as well!
Read moreSupport
These are a bit pricey for some budgets but not any more expensive than any other high-quality pair of running shoes. They provide you with the support that you need to ensure you can keep going as long as you need to.
Comfort
Their new DNA midsole takes it further by adjusting to each individuals foot and providing a more "individualized" and well-cushioned fit.
Stability
As far as stability goes, these neutral runners do a good job at keeping your feet stable to ensure they don't roll around while you are running out on the road.
Breathability
When it comes to breathability, you will love how well-ventilated these are and how breathable they are.
Durability
These are really durable and really couldn't find any complaints about the shoe's overall durability. If you want something that will last you the long haul, these may be it.
6. Brooks Glycerin 16
If you're looking for a durable, comfortable running shoe that absorbs impact, has good arch support and flexibility the Brooks Glycerin is the one for you.
Read moreSupport
When it comes to support, these shoes are perfect for those of you who need neutral support and not anything crazy.
Comfort
It has a full-length cushioned midsole that absorbs impact when your feet hit the ground, it provides great arch support, has good flexibility, and its seamless 3D stretch upper provides stability.
Stability
The Brooks Glycerin is a comfortable and stable neutral running shoe, although if you are looking for something that is well ventilated this may not be the one for you.
Breathability
The good thing about these shoes is that they are really breathable and they keep your feet nice and dry while you are out running.
Durability
This is a durable and quality made running shoe that will last a long time. There were few to no complaints about its durability. The price of this neutral running shoe can be quite expensive, but it will be worth it.
Sources
- , FootScientific.com, Informational Foot site
- , Web Md, Medical information site
